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Vagabond VIZBIG Omnibus Edition #4
Vagabond, Vol. 4
Infinite Universe
Real-life figure Miyamoto Musashi was the most celebrated samurai of all time. The quintessential warrior-philosopher, Musashi authored A Book of Five Rings, a classic treatise in the canon of world philosophy and military strategy. But the path to enlightenment is an endless journey, and to get there through violent means—by way of the sword—makes mere survival an even greater challenge.
Musashi endeavors to take on sword master Yagyū Sekishūsai, a man recognized by many to be the greatest swordsman of his time. But with Sekishūsai far past his prime, does Musashi truly believe that killing a seemingly helpless old man in his sleep will take him further along the path?
Real-life figure Miyamoto Musashi was the most celebrated samurai of all time. The quintessential warrior-philosopher, Musashi authored A Book of Five Rings, a classic treatise in the canon of world philosophy and military strategy. But the path to enlightenment is an endless journey, and to get there through violent means—by way of the sword—makes mere survival an even greater challenge.
Musashi endeavors to take on sword master Yagyū Sekishūsai, a man recognized by many to be the greatest swordsman of his time. But with Sekishūsai far past his prime, does Musashi truly believe that killing a seemingly helpless old man in his sleep will take him further along the path?
664 pages, Paperback
First published November 22, 2001
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624 people want to read
About the author
Takehiko Inoue
316 books1,582 followersTakehiko Inoue (井上雄彦) is a Japanese manga artist, best known for Slam Dunk and Vagabond.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
September 26, 2018
I had initially put this volume at 4.5, but upon reflection, and after going back to it prior to writing the review, I can’t give it anything other than 5 stars. Simply put the art is stunning (as usual) and the story is engrossing. I can’t deny that there is definitely a sense of repetition to the story of Miyamoto Musashi and his quest for perfection in the way of the sword, but the sameness lies more in a cyclical progression as he continually faces a new challenge in the form of some new champion swordsman, the details of which differ while the overall arc is similar. In each of these challenges Musashi is continually learning and progressing as he overcomes not only his external foes, but his greatest enemy: his own worst nature. Musashi is slowly learning that what he first took as a means of mastery over the world through the exploitation of his wild strength is really a quest to master himself and his own inner nature.
The volume opens with the continuation of Musashi vs the Yagyu disciples wherein he shows his new confidence and mastery learned from his battles with the Hozoin as he attempts to fight his way to the renowned Sekishusai who, unbeknownst to Musashi, lies ill under the nursing hand of Otsu. Despite being a favourite of the master of the Yagyu and finally having found something apporaching a family in her new community Otsu finds herself discontented as she pines for Takezo and recalls her old life with sadness. As is becoming a common trope in the story Otsu proves to be both an unwitting and a purposeful distraction to Musashi in his contest against the Yagyu, nearly costing him his life. Otsu and Musashi have a bittersweet reunion in which Otsu discovers an inner strength in the midst of her longing and Musashi sees that for all of his devotion to the way of the sword he still has even deeper longings.
Musashi finally reaches Sekishusai, again facing off against a master in an unconventional battle of wills, and (yet again) comes face to face with his unpreparedness. The ghost of his vengeful and violent father comes to haunt him and show the dichotomy between his initial belief in strength and conquest above all vs the inner strength and peace of the true masters he is beginning to face. The bestial nature and raw strength of Musashi is once again shown to be inadequate to true mastery of the sword. Musashi moves on leaving Otsu and Jotaro to follow in the wake of his search for another challenge.
Meanwhile Matahachi, his mother, and Uncle Gon continue their own quest in search of the ‘lovers’ Otsu and Musashi where the cowardice and lies of Matahachi come yet again to haunt him, this time with tragic results. In the end the paths of the three groups are converging again as Musashi goes in search of another famous fighter, the master of the sickle and chain, and meets up with another old ‘friend’ whose solitary life and unconventional partnership mirror some elements of Musashi’s own experiences.
As you can see there is much in the overall shape of the story in this volume that repeats what we have seen in earlier ones, but within this repetition Musashi is slowly moving forward, coming to a greater sense of self-awareness and each of the main players (and many of the minor ones) in the story are given a chance to shine and move on along their own path, adding a richness and detail to the story. Definitely recommended.
The volume opens with the continuation of Musashi vs the Yagyu disciples wherein he shows his new confidence and mastery learned from his battles with the Hozoin as he attempts to fight his way to the renowned Sekishusai who, unbeknownst to Musashi, lies ill under the nursing hand of Otsu. Despite being a favourite of the master of the Yagyu and finally having found something apporaching a family in her new community Otsu finds herself discontented as she pines for Takezo and recalls her old life with sadness. As is becoming a common trope in the story Otsu proves to be both an unwitting and a purposeful distraction to Musashi in his contest against the Yagyu, nearly costing him his life. Otsu and Musashi have a bittersweet reunion in which Otsu discovers an inner strength in the midst of her longing and Musashi sees that for all of his devotion to the way of the sword he still has even deeper longings.
Musashi finally reaches Sekishusai, again facing off against a master in an unconventional battle of wills, and (yet again) comes face to face with his unpreparedness. The ghost of his vengeful and violent father comes to haunt him and show the dichotomy between his initial belief in strength and conquest above all vs the inner strength and peace of the true masters he is beginning to face. The bestial nature and raw strength of Musashi is once again shown to be inadequate to true mastery of the sword. Musashi moves on leaving Otsu and Jotaro to follow in the wake of his search for another challenge.
Meanwhile Matahachi, his mother, and Uncle Gon continue their own quest in search of the ‘lovers’ Otsu and Musashi where the cowardice and lies of Matahachi come yet again to haunt him, this time with tragic results. In the end the paths of the three groups are converging again as Musashi goes in search of another famous fighter, the master of the sickle and chain, and meets up with another old ‘friend’ whose solitary life and unconventional partnership mirror some elements of Musashi’s own experiences.
As you can see there is much in the overall shape of the story in this volume that repeats what we have seen in earlier ones, but within this repetition Musashi is slowly moving forward, coming to a greater sense of self-awareness and each of the main players (and many of the minor ones) in the story are given a chance to shine and move on along their own path, adding a richness and detail to the story. Definitely recommended.
June 21, 2018
Oh boy, how I missed Vagabond! Takehiko Inoue's masterpiece samurai manga about the life and the path of Miyamoto Musashi continues with an absolutely stunning volume. Musashi goes from one invincible warrior to the next, fighting his way through every obstacle. Matahachi's reckless con finally backfires on him in the most devastating way. And the introduction of Shishido Baiken, the master of chain and sickle, was a very intriguing twist and I can't wait to find out more about him and his sensei. Vagabond keeps being an incredible series — subtle in storytelling and vast in scope, very personal, and absolutely gorgeous. This is definitely the most beautiful manga I've ever read, and possibly even my favourite manga overall. Can't wait to get to the next volume.
August 19, 2019
Думав, що попередній том був нереальний, а виявилось, що цей перевершив усі мої очікування. Якщо я десь трішки сумнівався раніше, що це краща манґа у моєму житті (хоча їх взагалі мало було, що там казати), то тепер можу твердо сказати: це шедевральний комікс. Про малюнок вже не хочу навіть зайвий раз згадувати, адже Іноуе тримає настільки високу планку, що мені просто цікаво: а скільки часу він витрачає на одну панель, особливо деталізовану? Кожен листочок, кожен візерунок, кожна архітектуарна деталь -- все прописано ідеально. Інколи просто зависаєш, як вже говорив, і медитуєш над окремими фреймами. Особливо мені подобається як Такехіко то сповільнює, то прискорює темп розповіді, тобто повністю володіє часом, а це вже рівень. До того ж, виразною особливістю його манери є те, що бойові сцени можуть тривати декілька глав, тобто спокійно займати третину книги (понад двісті сторінок).
Щодо самого сюжету, то саме це мене остаточно й вразило у цьому томі. Іноуе тепер не тільки показує еволюцію фізичного та духовного шляху Маямото Мусаші, але його взаємин із різними персонажами. Що найцікавіше, то це стягування сюжетних ниток із попередніх томів, які проявляються у несподіваних твістах. Це говорить про те, що цю манґу потрібно уважно читати, хоча й легкий і швидкий темп наративу наче й не передбачає цього. Мені навіть довелося трохи напружитись, щоб пригадати деякі важливі моменти. Найбільше мене вразила сюжетна лінія із Матахачі, другом Мусаші. Він тепер не тільки відтіняє позитивні риси Мусаші, але й постає як драматчна фігура, яка буквально руйнує інші життя через власну слабкість. Постає цілком логічне й важке моральне питання: а чи вартий життя він? Чи повинен він нарешті здатись і розповісти про своє справжнє обличчя? Річ у тім, що ми так часто хочемо бути кращими, аніж є, але у кого це виходить (як-от у Мусаші), а хтось губить себе й інших. От реально цікаво, що буде далі з цим персонажем, а також яку роль зіграє Мусаші в цій історії.
Щодо самого сюжету, то саме це мене остаточно й вразило у цьому томі. Іноуе тепер не тільки показує еволюцію фізичного та духовного шляху Маямото Мусаші, але його взаємин із різними персонажами. Що найцікавіше, то це стягування сюжетних ниток із попередніх томів, які проявляються у несподіваних твістах. Це говорить про те, що цю манґу потрібно уважно читати, хоча й легкий і швидкий темп наративу наче й не передбачає цього. Мені навіть довелося трохи напружитись, щоб пригадати деякі важливі моменти. Найбільше мене вразила сюжетна лінія із Матахачі, другом Мусаші. Він тепер не тільки відтіняє позитивні риси Мусаші, але й постає як драматчна фігура, яка буквально руйнує інші життя через власну слабкість. Постає цілком логічне й важке моральне питання: а чи вартий життя він? Чи повинен він нарешті здатись і розповісти про своє справжнє обличчя? Річ у тім, що ми так часто хочемо бути кращими, аніж є, але у кого це виходить (як-от у Мусаші), а хтось губить себе й інших. От реально цікаво, що буде далі з цим персонажем, а також яку роль зіграє Мусаші в цій історії.
March 24, 2024
Finally acknowledged for truly being strong (you can just see it in their eyes), fucking hell this series is so so good, it just understands, might sound weird but I can't think of anything kinder or better, atleast my interpretation of it makes me feel so understood, straight on to vol 5 :)
November 10, 2021
What sets Vagabond from other samurai-genre manga that I have read (Lone Wolf and Cub, Demon Slayer and Rurouni Kenshin) are these intimate, personal and philosophical battles between strong individuals. Nothing is loud and epic in scope, no over-the-top techniques, no grandiose spectacles of rivalries. Just quiet battles. And Takehiko Inoue lets us see through all these in his work. We are in there to experience it all. And the value that you can take away from Vagabond is deeper than popcorn entertainment, but something deeper than that.
This is not an attack on those material which goes with the usual "epic fight" route because they are great and are must-reads too, but it is a testament how outstandingly great Vagabond is. With less overall art quality, or with an incorrect pacing, or with not enough character development, Vagabond's story would feel bland, pretentious, and flat. But it's not.
Volume 4 concludes an arc with a fight that didn't actually happen, with skirmishes that far less contribute to Musashi's character development, and treads on a new arc that retreads a detail in the Takezo (first) arc. That's what it would sound like when you ask somebody what happened in the fourth (Vizbig edition) volume. The material is infinitely better than that. So like what I said in the volume 1 review, the only thing you need to know about Vagabond is you need to read it.
This is not an attack on those material which goes with the usual "epic fight" route because they are great and are must-reads too, but it is a testament how outstandingly great Vagabond is. With less overall art quality, or with an incorrect pacing, or with not enough character development, Vagabond's story would feel bland, pretentious, and flat. But it's not.
Volume 4 concludes an arc with a fight that didn't actually happen, with skirmishes that far less contribute to Musashi's character development, and treads on a new arc that retreads a detail in the Takezo (first) arc. That's what it would sound like when you ask somebody what happened in the fourth (Vizbig edition) volume. The material is infinitely better than that. So like what I said in the volume 1 review, the only thing you need to know about Vagabond is you need to read it.
August 30, 2021
This feels like a turning point of some sort for Musashi. He's still on his quest to battle the greatest fighters in the land in his quest to become invincible, but the face off with the master of Yagyu is quite different than that of his battle with Inshun previously.
He reunites with Otsu who he clearly has feelings for but realises that he could be cut down at any time and it would be unfair to once again leave her alone, the same goes for his young prone-to-crying disciple Jotaro. So he sets off alone, with the two of them trailing behind, unwilling to let him go.
Matahachi, Musashi's friend from the village continues to evolve into a different person seemingly in the opposite direction of his friend. He's become more of a drunk, more of a fool, more and more pathetic. I do look forward to their eventual reunion.
As usual the artwork is fantastic, and even more symbolic in this volume than previously. Even though the story was beginning to feel a bit repetitive, the artwork is enough to keep me hooked.
He reunites with Otsu who he clearly has feelings for but realises that he could be cut down at any time and it would be unfair to once again leave her alone, the same goes for his young prone-to-crying disciple Jotaro. So he sets off alone, with the two of them trailing behind, unwilling to let him go.
Matahachi, Musashi's friend from the village continues to evolve into a different person seemingly in the opposite direction of his friend. He's become more of a drunk, more of a fool, more and more pathetic. I do look forward to their eventual reunion.
As usual the artwork is fantastic, and even more symbolic in this volume than previously. Even though the story was beginning to feel a bit repetitive, the artwork is enough to keep me hooked.
June 21, 2023
Давно я не читав Vagabond. Третій том був прочитаний в липні 21 року. Отже, настав час четвертого тому Vagabond.
Сюжетно. Такезо продовжує свій шлях становлення кращим фехтувальником. Для цього він з боєм проривається до замку клану Яґю, в якому знаходиться Ягю Секішусай. В ході довгих роздумів та неймовірної аури Секішусай (невразливий), Такезо ( Міямото Мусаші) розуміє, що йому ще далеко до битви з невразливим і йде далі тренуватись, шукаючи собі сильних опонентів. Долаючи гори, він розуміє, як тільки він підкорить одну гору на нього чекає ще більше гір для звершення.
Друга арка про "самозванця" Сасакі Коджіро. Не така багата. Знаходить свою матір з дядьком, які просять повернутись додому. Тікає. Натикається на ронінів, які бачать в ньому самозванця. Таке. І загалом ця арка більш є підводкою до перетину Коджіро та Мусаші (або мені так здалось).
Третя арка загалом розказує про Шішідо Байкена на прізвисько ланцюг і серп. (Використовує кусарігаму). У ньому Мусаші бачить старого знайомого, та все ж просить двобій. На цьому загалом том і завершується і треба читати далі.
Малюнок як завжди заворожує. Патос, мускулистість, рішучість. Просто кожну сторінку кожен портрет можна довго розглядати для деталей. І з кожним томом стає все більш виразним. тут все досі бій може тягнутись сторінок 50. або просто стояти на місці та думати сторінок 20. і це просто неймовірно.
Сюжетно. Такезо продовжує свій шлях становлення кращим фехтувальником. Для цього він з боєм проривається до замку клану Яґю, в якому знаходиться Ягю Секішусай. В ході довгих роздумів та неймовірної аури Секішусай (невразливий), Такезо ( Міямото Мусаші) розуміє, що йому ще далеко до битви з невразливим і йде далі тренуватись, шукаючи собі сильних опонентів. Долаючи гори, він розуміє, як тільки він підкорить одну гору на нього чекає ще більше гір для звершення.
Друга арка про "самозванця" Сасакі Коджіро. Не така багата. Знаходить свою матір з дядьком, які просять повернутись додому. Тікає. Натикається на ронінів, які бачать в ньому самозванця. Таке. І загалом ця арка більш є підводкою до перетину Коджіро та Мусаші (або мені так здалось).
Третя арка загалом розказує про Шішідо Байкена на прізвисько ланцюг і серп. (Використовує кусарігаму). У ньому Мусаші бачить старого знайомого, та все ж просить двобій. На цьому загалом том і завершується і треба читати далі.
Малюнок як завжди заворожує. Патос, мускулистість, рішучість. Просто кожну сторінку кожен портрет можна довго розглядати для деталей. І з кожним томом стає все більш виразним. тут все досі бій може тягнутись сторінок 50. або просто стояти на місці та думати сторінок 20. і це просто неймовірно.
April 4, 2017
4 1/2 stars
April 19, 2020
Great! Again!
March 5, 2021
We get a little more background into the past of some of the main characters. One guess, Takezo and Matahachi want to be stronger. Seriously, none of the main characters have a personality that is quite that likable. Musahi's only driving motivation is to just continue to fight other masters to become stronger. Matahachi continues to be a failure at making a name for himself by adopting a fake name and Samurai status. Otsu is the bland love interest in a love triangle. And Jotaro is still the standard cliched kid sidekick.
Yet it's still an interesting and fast read. Takehiko Inoue's art is still compelling and detailed as can be. The action scenes as can be expected are quick and fluid.
Yet it's still an interesting and fast read. Takehiko Inoue's art is still compelling and detailed as can be. The action scenes as can be expected are quick and fluid.
August 31, 2022
No sword…so many things in this world…cannot be expressed with words. Some things can not be explained. They must be experienced…
January 10, 2026
Gah! I continue to be dipped in and out of warm and cold water with this manga. Sometimes it wallows in its continued edge, with cringey shonenesque remarks on Musashi's badassery and jumpscares of Matahachi's erotic escapades, not to mention mandatory sexual harassment if not straight not assault (the latter of which this volume is blessedly free of) which ends up making this feel more like a story that's trying to be deeper than it is; but then come genuine flashes of genius that keep pulling me back to it. The novel, which I have read (listened to, to be precise) upto a similar point, has been quite different with less definite arcs, but I still prefer that zen aimlessness over the gratuity of the manga. But it's not poor enough for me to drop it while not being consistent enough for me to be eager to move forward with it. Sometimes I feel like it's being intentionally immature so the more profound parts feel weightier later on, but we're already a third way through the published chapters.
April 26, 2024
You see I don't love in general these kinds of slow moving stories and yet Vagabond has such a storytelling style and with such amazing art that it feels like watching a movie reading the manga that I cannot in good conscience give it a low rating. Also, to be fair, for the genre it sits in, there are no faults to find so although I'd be more on the 4 stars enjoyment wise, I I think on here it deserves a 5.
November 2, 2024
Загалом, ніяких особливих змін від попередніх частин. Такедзо продовжує намагатися стати найсильнішим аби довести щось чи то собі, чи то батьку (не відомо) - є і злети і падіння. Оцу прислужує клану Юуґі, стикається з Такедзо і вирушає слідом за ним (але він вже чаурнув далі). Разом з малим Джотаро вони знаходять напівживу бабцю — матір Матахарі, в якої жар і вона говорить, що Матахарі має вбити Такедзо і Оцу. Матахарі продовжує пиячити, злягатися (коли пощастить), вдавати з себе іншого (чиї документи вкрав) і тікати від справжніх воїнів (завдяки чому його рідний дядько Ґон гине).
February 28, 2019
This series is good.
That is all.
That is all.
April 26, 2022
Another great installment. Though I don't like Matahachi and this book focused quite a lot on him too.
September 19, 2024
Another great volume. The artwork is stellar and there a few absolutely jaw-dropping moments. Truly epic.
December 8, 2025
Same great action and characters, finally beginning to deliver on some of the philosophical promises of the series
June 3, 2023
We are infinite beings. Just have to tap in and truly see ourselves for what we are and what we are capable of
March 18, 2017
Volume 10 - 5 Stars
YESSSS the reunion, ohh what I've been longing for !! This volume was absolutely phenomenal, the action and strength displayed was amazing, I thoroughly enjoyed myself whilst reading this. I'm just so in love with Musashi's growth, every volume he becomes a wiser, stronger, more skill full, loveable and respectable character, honestly he's definitely one of my favourite protagonists ever ! Aside from my love, this volume had such great humour and the battle's kept me gasping out in shock, I was constantly 'oohing and ahhing', my eyes bewildered by the strength of these men. I'm about to continue onto volume 11 and i can't contain my happiness :D (I was literally smiling, teeth and all, throughout this whole volume).
Volume 11 - 4.9 Stars
This volume is gracious, it is simplicity and perplexity, yet it bares no complexity, it's just that, potential. This is why I love Inoue's work he's a true sculptor, an artist, his work is helping me evolve as Musashi is. Sekishūsai's sequence in this volume was unbeatable, so grand !
I feel much like Musashi when he first discovers Yagyū's invincibility, I want to revisit not only this volume but the whole series throughout my own spiritual journey and keep growing as the characters in this series do. Also Otsū is amazing and I'm clapping in joy right now Matahachi's
bout to get his ass kicked FINALLY I'm looking forward to this !!
Volume 12 - 4.9 Stars
I loved the second half of this volume so so much ! I'm extremely happy to finally see some female dominance in the series and I'm super keen to seen what's in store for Musashi in terms of learning the chain and sickle technique. The appearance of Tsujikaze Kōhei was a pleasant surprise as well ! The art was amazing as always, riveting it was, chapter 109 was exquisite and Otsū, what can I say, she's breathtaking !
I'm so glad to see some brutality being placed upon the Hon'iden family (although my previous excitement about Matahachi's face off with Kai Shōjirō left me unfulfilled -_-) - I'm just waiting on their downfall ! Sadly the only sane person in the family got killed off first ! Very excited to continue on with Vagabond definitely my favourite manga series :)
YESSSS the reunion, ohh what I've been longing for !! This volume was absolutely phenomenal, the action and strength displayed was amazing, I thoroughly enjoyed myself whilst reading this. I'm just so in love with Musashi's growth, every volume he becomes a wiser, stronger, more skill full, loveable and respectable character, honestly he's definitely one of my favourite protagonists ever ! Aside from my love, this volume had such great humour and the battle's kept me gasping out in shock, I was constantly 'oohing and ahhing', my eyes bewildered by the strength of these men. I'm about to continue onto volume 11 and i can't contain my happiness :D (I was literally smiling, teeth and all, throughout this whole volume).
Volume 11 - 4.9 Stars
This volume is gracious, it is simplicity and perplexity, yet it bares no complexity, it's just that, potential. This is why I love Inoue's work he's a true sculptor, an artist, his work is helping me evolve as Musashi is. Sekishūsai's sequence in this volume was unbeatable, so grand !
I feel much like Musashi when he first discovers Yagyū's invincibility, I want to revisit not only this volume but the whole series throughout my own spiritual journey and keep growing as the characters in this series do. Also Otsū is amazing and I'm clapping in joy right now Matahachi's
bout to get his ass kicked FINALLY I'm looking forward to this !!
Volume 12 - 4.9 Stars
I loved the second half of this volume so so much ! I'm extremely happy to finally see some female dominance in the series and I'm super keen to seen what's in store for Musashi in terms of learning the chain and sickle technique. The appearance of Tsujikaze Kōhei was a pleasant surprise as well ! The art was amazing as always, riveting it was, chapter 109 was exquisite and Otsū, what can I say, she's breathtaking !
I'm so glad to see some brutality being placed upon the Hon'iden family (although my previous excitement about Matahachi's face off with Kai Shōjirō left me unfulfilled -_-) - I'm just waiting on their downfall ! Sadly the only sane person in the family got killed off first ! Very excited to continue on with Vagabond definitely my favourite manga series :)
July 4, 2023
Nice cliffhanger ending and revelation of who the master of the scythe and chain style is.
July 14, 2015
Loved it.
August 12, 2025
Giga chad
March 1, 2019
This is for books 4 and 5.
Art - the art continues to be good. The line art and hatching techniques are ones that tend to make everything looks sort of dirty and dark and muddled to me. It's not as clean or as defined as some of my favorite manga. It does give it a unique look that can really work, but overall I feel it takes away clarity and adds a style I don't personally find appealing.
In addition the character designs are are all very similar. Couple that with names I can't remember and it can be hard to distinguish who they are talking about or who I am even looking at. I understand it's historical but having the characters look and dress the same often with similar hair styles becomes monotonous and difficult to follow.
That said - some of the fights look astounding - particularly the fight the ended book 5 when the surrogate father was facing off against the half naked drunk. And another excellent artistic moment was Musashi's fight against the school disciples. The way the art flows often completely without words or dialogue - reminds me of visual poetry. It guides your eye very well and the panel layout is almost uniformly excellent. I think this is the saving grace of the series for me. It often can have almost full chapters with no dialogue and still be exciting and visually guide your eye in a pleasing way. It's like taking in a poem - simple, graceful, and elegant.
Story - the story continues to be straightforward. It surprisingly continues to follow a shonen manga trope of - I want to be the very best, I will search the land for strong guys to fight and beat up to prove I'm the best. Thankfully they interrupted Musashi's rather generic plot line to introduce his rival and build up his background. Kojiro's surrogate father's story was much more compelling and acted as a great refresher since the Musashi storyline was getting kind of stale to me. I actually liked he and his son's relationship and the story had stakes because I wasn't sure who would live or die.
Dialogue - seems like a good translation, the dialogue is readable and appears to gel well with the intended vibe, setting, and characters.
I can begin to see why this manga is held in such high regard. The visual story telling can be quite excellent. If I enjoyed the hatching aesthetic more I think I would be more into it. But as it stands it's usually compelling enough to continue.
Art - the art continues to be good. The line art and hatching techniques are ones that tend to make everything looks sort of dirty and dark and muddled to me. It's not as clean or as defined as some of my favorite manga. It does give it a unique look that can really work, but overall I feel it takes away clarity and adds a style I don't personally find appealing.
In addition the character designs are are all very similar. Couple that with names I can't remember and it can be hard to distinguish who they are talking about or who I am even looking at. I understand it's historical but having the characters look and dress the same often with similar hair styles becomes monotonous and difficult to follow.
That said - some of the fights look astounding - particularly the fight the ended book 5 when the surrogate father was facing off against the half naked drunk. And another excellent artistic moment was Musashi's fight against the school disciples. The way the art flows often completely without words or dialogue - reminds me of visual poetry. It guides your eye very well and the panel layout is almost uniformly excellent. I think this is the saving grace of the series for me. It often can have almost full chapters with no dialogue and still be exciting and visually guide your eye in a pleasing way. It's like taking in a poem - simple, graceful, and elegant.
Story - the story continues to be straightforward. It surprisingly continues to follow a shonen manga trope of - I want to be the very best, I will search the land for strong guys to fight and beat up to prove I'm the best. Thankfully they interrupted Musashi's rather generic plot line to introduce his rival and build up his background. Kojiro's surrogate father's story was much more compelling and acted as a great refresher since the Musashi storyline was getting kind of stale to me. I actually liked he and his son's relationship and the story had stakes because I wasn't sure who would live or die.
Dialogue - seems like a good translation, the dialogue is readable and appears to gel well with the intended vibe, setting, and characters.
I can begin to see why this manga is held in such high regard. The visual story telling can be quite excellent. If I enjoyed the hatching aesthetic more I think I would be more into it. But as it stands it's usually compelling enough to continue.
January 17, 2025
See everything in its entirety… effortlessly. That is what it means to truly see.
The dangerous journey to invincibility continues in Vagabond #4 Vizbig Edition— Vol. 10, 11, & 12. Takezo, now renowned as Miyamoto Musashi, is at the castle of the Yagyu Clan. Meanwhile, his loyal protégé, Jotaro, unwittingly exposes Musashi’s intentions to the clan members, creating tension.
The clan’s master, Yagyu Sekishusai, is bedridden due to a sudden illness and is under the care of Otsu. Musashi encounters the master in a clandestine meeting, but only after a brief and chaotic battle with clan members. Standing over the unconscious master with his sword raised, Musashi is confronted by profound visions and buried emotions that challenge his understanding of invincibility. The encounter leaves him shaken and forces him to retreat after an abrupt exchange, his resolve shaken.
Musashi and Otsu cross paths in this edition, only to be separated shortly after. While Otsu remains a distraction in Musashi’s mind, it becomes increasingly evident that his feelings for her run deep. Jotaro & Otsu decide to join forces in their quest to find Musashi, who relentlessly climbs higher in his pursuit of strength, defeating practitioners & masters of various fighting styles. Yet, no matter how skilled he becomes, the true meaning of invincibility continues to elude him.
The narrative also delves into the hedonistic life of Matahachi, who reunites with his mother and uncle. Together, they plot to hunt Musashi and seek revenge. As the volume progresses, Musashi encounters an old adversary, Kohei, who now goes by the name Shishido Baiken—an infamous leader of thieves and master of chain-and-sickle weaponry. Although, an adopted identity, Kohei has perfected the technique and surprises Mushashi on how he achieved such mastery. For answers, we must turn to the next volume.
Needless to say, the art of Vagabond is a pinnacle of modern manga—an exemplary showcase of visual storytelling. While the narrative occasionally lags, particularly during the enigmatic meet between Musashi and Master Yagyu, the philosophical undertones resonate deeply with readers who seek strength and strive to surpass their own limits!
The dangerous journey to invincibility continues in Vagabond #4 Vizbig Edition— Vol. 10, 11, & 12. Takezo, now renowned as Miyamoto Musashi, is at the castle of the Yagyu Clan. Meanwhile, his loyal protégé, Jotaro, unwittingly exposes Musashi’s intentions to the clan members, creating tension.
The clan’s master, Yagyu Sekishusai, is bedridden due to a sudden illness and is under the care of Otsu. Musashi encounters the master in a clandestine meeting, but only after a brief and chaotic battle with clan members. Standing over the unconscious master with his sword raised, Musashi is confronted by profound visions and buried emotions that challenge his understanding of invincibility. The encounter leaves him shaken and forces him to retreat after an abrupt exchange, his resolve shaken.
Musashi and Otsu cross paths in this edition, only to be separated shortly after. While Otsu remains a distraction in Musashi’s mind, it becomes increasingly evident that his feelings for her run deep. Jotaro & Otsu decide to join forces in their quest to find Musashi, who relentlessly climbs higher in his pursuit of strength, defeating practitioners & masters of various fighting styles. Yet, no matter how skilled he becomes, the true meaning of invincibility continues to elude him.
The narrative also delves into the hedonistic life of Matahachi, who reunites with his mother and uncle. Together, they plot to hunt Musashi and seek revenge. As the volume progresses, Musashi encounters an old adversary, Kohei, who now goes by the name Shishido Baiken—an infamous leader of thieves and master of chain-and-sickle weaponry. Although, an adopted identity, Kohei has perfected the technique and surprises Mushashi on how he achieved such mastery. For answers, we must turn to the next volume.
Needless to say, the art of Vagabond is a pinnacle of modern manga—an exemplary showcase of visual storytelling. While the narrative occasionally lags, particularly during the enigmatic meet between Musashi and Master Yagyu, the philosophical undertones resonate deeply with readers who seek strength and strive to surpass their own limits!
January 6, 2026
Vagabond, Volume 4 (VIZBIG Edition), by Takehiko Inoue, is a powerful continuation of a manga that feels less like simple historical fiction and more like a meditation on violence, purpose, and what it truly means to be strong.
I originally picked up this series at the encouragement of my great-nephew quite a while ago, and I’m grateful I finally returned to it. I’ve always loved samurai films and some classic samurai manga - Lone Wolf and Cub being a longtime favorite - so Vagabond sits comfortably within a genre I deeply enjoy, while also pushing beyond it in surprising ways.
It had been a few years since I last read Volumes 1–3, and I’ll admit I felt a bit lost at first. The story does not hold your hand, and Inoue trusts the reader to piece together motivations, rivalries, and emotional undercurrents through expression, silence, and action rather than exposition. Once I found my footing again, however, the narrative pulled me back in completely.
The manga is based on the life of Miyamoto Musashi, the real-life swordsman who would later be revered as a kensei - a “sword saint” - in Japan. What makes Inoue’s portrayal so compelling is that Musashi is not presented as a legend from the outset. Instead, we see him as raw, violent, prideful, and deeply conflicted. Volume 4, in particular, leans heavily into the psychological cost of the path he has chosen, asking whether the pursuit of invincibility brings enlightenment - or only isolation.
Visually, Inoue’s artwork remains breathtaking. Each duel feels heavy with consequence, every quiet moment charged with introspection. Faces tell stories all their own, and the landscapes mirror Musashi’s internal wilderness. Few manga artists can convey motion and stillness with such equal mastery.
Vagabond is not a fast or easy read, but it is a rewarding one. For fans of samurai cinema, historical fiction, or character-driven storytelling, this volume reinforces why Vagabond is often considered one of the greatest manga ever created. I may have stumbled briefly at the beginning, but by the end, I was fully reminded why this journey - and this swordsman - continue to endure.
I originally picked up this series at the encouragement of my great-nephew quite a while ago, and I’m grateful I finally returned to it. I’ve always loved samurai films and some classic samurai manga - Lone Wolf and Cub being a longtime favorite - so Vagabond sits comfortably within a genre I deeply enjoy, while also pushing beyond it in surprising ways.
It had been a few years since I last read Volumes 1–3, and I’ll admit I felt a bit lost at first. The story does not hold your hand, and Inoue trusts the reader to piece together motivations, rivalries, and emotional undercurrents through expression, silence, and action rather than exposition. Once I found my footing again, however, the narrative pulled me back in completely.
The manga is based on the life of Miyamoto Musashi, the real-life swordsman who would later be revered as a kensei - a “sword saint” - in Japan. What makes Inoue’s portrayal so compelling is that Musashi is not presented as a legend from the outset. Instead, we see him as raw, violent, prideful, and deeply conflicted. Volume 4, in particular, leans heavily into the psychological cost of the path he has chosen, asking whether the pursuit of invincibility brings enlightenment - or only isolation.
Visually, Inoue’s artwork remains breathtaking. Each duel feels heavy with consequence, every quiet moment charged with introspection. Faces tell stories all their own, and the landscapes mirror Musashi’s internal wilderness. Few manga artists can convey motion and stillness with such equal mastery.
Vagabond is not a fast or easy read, but it is a rewarding one. For fans of samurai cinema, historical fiction, or character-driven storytelling, this volume reinforces why Vagabond is often considered one of the greatest manga ever created. I may have stumbled briefly at the beginning, but by the end, I was fully reminded why this journey - and this swordsman - continue to endure.
December 30, 2025
Yagu arc is really cool, Musashi vs all of the disciples on the bridge and bringing out two swords goes absolutely crazy. The new master of the Yagu is also well-developed, tension building for whenever they actually meet. I will say the trope of "I must battle the undefeated master of the spear, and the invincible master of x or y dojo" only to find that the master is bed-ridden and he must fight the "heir" is cool but also getting a little tired. It has happened literally every dojo, including the sickle one where the OG guy is just dead and someone else has taken his place - I will allow this because it's actually super interesting from a narrative perspective.
Reunion with Otsu was also really well done, play that flute girl.
As of vol 4, chapter 100, I still HATE Matahatchi & Jotaro. I hope Jotaro has some kind of arc and it is basically a trope to have a side-kick kid character but I literally roll my eyes every time there is a Matahatchi chapter. I appreciate he is supposed to be a sniffling loser and he exists to be juxtaposed against Musashi's journey (and there is an obvious moral good and bad between the two - although Musashi kills people and Matahatchi doesn't really) but that character has got to go somewhere more interesting or just die.
With that said, I am quite hyped by Musashi leaving Otsu and Jotaro, he is way more interesting as a lone Ronin and the start of the sickle arc is shaping up nicely.
Reunion with Otsu was also really well done, play that flute girl.
As of vol 4, chapter 100, I still HATE Matahatchi & Jotaro. I hope Jotaro has some kind of arc and it is basically a trope to have a side-kick kid character but I literally roll my eyes every time there is a Matahatchi chapter. I appreciate he is supposed to be a sniffling loser and he exists to be juxtaposed against Musashi's journey (and there is an obvious moral good and bad between the two - although Musashi kills people and Matahatchi doesn't really) but that character has got to go somewhere more interesting or just die.
With that said, I am quite hyped by Musashi leaving Otsu and Jotaro, he is way more interesting as a lone Ronin and the start of the sickle arc is shaping up nicely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2023
It was a great treat to once again return to the stunning manga world of Vagabond and its engrossing characters. This series is absolutely gorgeous with intricate artwork and an absorbing quest that keeps the pages turning. The images are so meticulously crafted that you want to linger a while longer to simply take in the transportive and impressive panels but the story keeps you anxiously plowing forward through the 600+ pages of this volume. At times, the chapters felt slightly repetitive and there were definitely some pacing issues with this one. Some events were glossed over too quickly while others were drawn out or rehashed one time too many. However, Takezo (AKA Miyamoto Musashi), Matahatchi and Otsu are intensely loveable and involving characters that traverse an epic landscape of Samurai adventures that you fall deeply in love with. It's like an immersive ancient fable that you never tire of hearing. The visuals are top-notch and they only elevate this classic tale to near mythic proportions. I'll gladly follow this story wherever Takehiko Inoue wants to take it and it's a great gift to enjoy his spectacular artwork.
May 24, 2024
Vagabond Volume 4 continues the journey of Miyamoto Musashi on his path to become invincible under the sun as we pick up back at the Yagyu Shrine where he faces the senior men who defend the legendary swordsman Sekishuasai.
The art style continues to be amazing as well as the pacing and development of each of the cast members. Miyamoto yet again growing and nearly falling once again back into his primal and reckless ways.
Invincible - it’s merely a word
This realisation that Musashi hears from the legendary swordsman he nearly assassinated in his sleep (once again facing his inner cowardice rather than facing him head on) takes Musashi into a spiral of confusion and disbelief. All he has worked towards was for nothing, if invincible is only a word then, what does it mean to be strong?
Great plot, Great Pacing, Great Art.
The Summit chapter was powerful and exciting, seeing Miyamoto realise he is nowhere near the top, even after all he has worked towards - and yet he smiles and with his ambition decides to pursue his goal yet again.
The art style continues to be amazing as well as the pacing and development of each of the cast members. Miyamoto yet again growing and nearly falling once again back into his primal and reckless ways.
Invincible - it’s merely a word
This realisation that Musashi hears from the legendary swordsman he nearly assassinated in his sleep (once again facing his inner cowardice rather than facing him head on) takes Musashi into a spiral of confusion and disbelief. All he has worked towards was for nothing, if invincible is only a word then, what does it mean to be strong?
Great plot, Great Pacing, Great Art.
The Summit chapter was powerful and exciting, seeing Miyamoto realise he is nowhere near the top, even after all he has worked towards - and yet he smiles and with his ambition decides to pursue his goal yet again.
January 15, 2022
Very interesting volume. It’s funny how the characters continuously run in to each other by accident. It’s great meeting new characters too. I love the development that Miyamoto Musashi has throughout the story so far, he is clearly becoming a true samurai and living his life by the way of the sword. I feel sorry for uncle Gon, he didn’t deserve the death he was given, but hopefully it was meaningful enough that Matahachi will change his ways and try to live his life by the way of the sword properly, like Takezo does.
I especially love the mangaka’s use of the space on the page, and the way he is really creative with the label spacing he uses, often crossing both pages for one imagine, which is something i have not often seen.
fantastic use of perspective throughout the work. lovely coloured pages give a break from the rest of the work. the chapters are of a reasonable length and the images before each chapter are gorgeous.
I especially love the mangaka’s use of the space on the page, and the way he is really creative with the label spacing he uses, often crossing both pages for one imagine, which is something i have not often seen.
fantastic use of perspective throughout the work. lovely coloured pages give a break from the rest of the work. the chapters are of a reasonable length and the images before each chapter are gorgeous.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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